Freestyle Libre 14 Day
Instinct sensor, made by Abbott, for MiniMed 780G
Summary
The FreeStyle Libre 14-day is an all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter that lasts for 14 days and only needs fingersticks as backup. . This sensor is a flash glucose monitor that requires scanning using a compatible smartphone app or a handheld reader.
FDA approved for insertion on the back of the upper arm (ages 4 years and older).
MARD of 9.4%
This is a CGM sensor made by Abbott, exclusively designed for MiniMed 780G system. It will work with MiniMed 780G and related systems. Wear time is up to 15 days, and warm-up is ~1 hour. Fingersticks are not required in closed-loop mode.
FDA approved for ages 7+ for use on the upper arm (back of upper arm)
MARD of ~8.5%
Components
Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every minute. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.
Receiver
Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or both. Available for both iOS and Android devices.
Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament beneath the skin to continuously measure glucose every 5 minutes. Simple, one-step applicator makes insertion fast and easy.
Device Details
Overview
All-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter can be worn on the upper arm.
Compact all-in-one sensor sensor, made by Abbott, exclusively designed for MiniMed 780G system.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.
$$$$
Coverage will depend on insurance policies and Medtronic’s rollout plan
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Automatic data transfer to LibreView each time Freestyle Libre 2 sensor is scanned. LibreView gives clinicians and users relevant glucose reports. Glooko and Tidepool can also be used to view data.
Yes
Data streams directly to the pump; users and clinicians can view trends and logs via Medtronic’s platforms.
Data View Options
Yes
Freestyle LibreLink app displays glucose readings directly on the patient's compatible smart device.
Yes
Data view directly on your connected pump or smart device.
Duration and Storage
14 Days
Sensors last 14 days and work between 50ºF - 113ºF. They are shipped in orders of 1-3 months at a time - which is 2-6 boxes at a time.
15 Days
Sensors last up to 15 days and need about 1 hour to warm up. They work between 50ºF – 113ºF and should be stored between 36ºF – 82ºF. They are usually shipped in 1–3 month supplies, which is about 2–6 sensors at a time.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
Multiple sound sources
SOME dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Water-resistant for up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes and light on the body, does not get in the way of activity. The reader must be within 1.5 inches of the sensor to scan it.
Long wear & water resistant. Longer wear reduces change burden; sensor design aims for robustness with movement. Water-resistant up to 3 feet (1 m) for 30 minutes (same standard as FreeStyle Libre family).
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Alerts are not available. High or low glucose alarms are not available. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.
Continuous closed-loop insulin adjustment helps maintain tighter control.
Comfort
Lowest profile sensor and smallest adhesive.
Small & Discreet. Very small, discreet form factor, and minimal bulk.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Scanned sensor readings can be used for dose adjustment.
MiniMed 780G closed-loop algorithm: adjusts basal and delivers automatic correction boluses using sensor data. Longer wear (15 days) means fewer interruptions in automated dosing. In manual mode, it still requires fingerstick confirmation before dosing from sensor values.
Easy to Use
Requires scanning. Self-application and manual scanning every 8-hours are required. Easy self-application.
Longer sensor life and shorter warm-up (~1 hour) help with convenience.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger-sticks needed for backup only.
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Somewhat discreet. Scanning feature makes it easy to monitor blood glucose levels discreetly.
Small & Customizable. Extremely small (about the size of two stacked pennies), designed to be less noticeable under clothing. Upper arm site only; discreet but still visible with sleeveless clothing. Alerts can be customized on the connected pump for quieter use.